NEW YORK -- Arismendy Alcantara has struggled in the leadoff spot, but he was back at the top of the Cubs' lineup on Monday against the Mets.

"I think [Alcantara] fits the leadoff profile," manager Rick Renteria said on Monday. "He is a good candidate. His numbers may not be what everybody wants to see in terms of production but he is a leadoff candidate."

In eight games, Alcantara was 8-for-39 batting first. He was needed there because Chris Coghlan has been batting a sore left big toe.

Another option was Matt Szczur, who called up to the big leagues on Sunday. Szczur made his first start on Monday at Citi Field.

"We've been talking about getting [Alcantara] back into that slot because we want him to get comfortable there because in the end, we see him as a potential leadoff guy," Renteria said. "He's got a history of getting on base. There are a lot of qualities that allow you to view him as a potential leadoff candidate."

Alcantara actually has been having a tough time in the No. 6 spot in the lineup as big league pitchers continue to throw the rookie more offspeed pitches. He was batting .206 in 16 games this month.